Connecticut Specialty Crop Block Grant

The Connecticut Department of Agricultural is soliciting applications whose project specifically addresses the goals the USDA has for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). The goals of a submitted project must enhance the competitiveness of United States specialty crops in domestic and foreign markets. Specialty crops are defined by the USDA as fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, horticulture (including maple syrup and honey), and nursery crops (including floriculture). A complete list of eligible and ineligible specialty crops can be found on the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program website: www.ams.usda.gov/scbgp.

The USDA is the funding entity and has the final approval of projects. Prior to the USDA’s approval, CT DoAg will conduct an administrative review for completeness and a confidential review panel of industry representatives will make award recommendations to the Commissioner of Agriculture. The USDA will make the final award decisions. 

The following entities are eligible to apply for Specialty Crop Block Grant:

• Universities/colleges

• Municipalities

• Registered nonprofits

• State agencies

• Council of Governments

Funding priorities for 2022 are as follows:

• Strengthening and improving food systems, including CT Grown value-added processing for expanded availability of CT Grown foods year-round

• Improving food security and/or implementing food safety requirements

• Research and development on controlled environment agriculture production systems and/or preparation for and adapting to climate change to strengthen Connecticut food production

Read the Guidance document carefully to prepare your application.

All submissions are required to be received via email by 4:00 p.m. on June 27th, 2022, to Rebecca Eddy at AGR.grants@ct.gov.Once your application is received, a confirmation email will be sent.

A complete application includes:

1. Application Cover Page

2. Budget Form

3. Project Profile Template (in MS .doc or .docx format only)

4. Optional letters of support.

• 2022 Specialty Crop Block Grant Guidance